"We're different, here at my church. We aren't captive to the world." Have you ever encountered such a place? A Christian community where they see themselves as something special, something holy, something different? Sometimes these places are wonderful, filled with wonderful people with wonderful hearts doing wonderful things for those in need. Quite often, though, when we call ourselves different, we establish boundaries between us and them.

It was a hot summer evening in New Hampshire. I was sitting cross-legged on the floor of the sanctuary of my internship congregation. Tied to my right wrist was an orange bandana. Surrounding me was my tribe, about fifteen energized third and fourth graders. On second thought, energized might be an understatement. It was the end of Vacation Bible School, and the curriculum we were using invited us to ask the kids for their “God sightings,” that is, …

Whether we want to admit it or not, many mainline pastors and denominations are banking on this idea. In our race to become missional, we have allowed some key assumptions to endure that are actually roadblocks to renewal.

Whether we want to admit it or not, many mainline pastors and denominations are banking on this idea. In our race to become missional, we have allowed some key assumptions to endure that are actually roadblocks to renewal.

Missional Assumption 2: Worship is the centerpiece of Christian life

Missional Reality 2: Discipleship is the centerpiece of Christian life

Whether we want to admit it or not, many mainline pastors and denominations are banking on this idea. In our race to become missional, we have allowed some key assumptions to endure that are actually roadblocks to renewal.

Missional Assumption 1: Becoming missional should be our priority

Missional Reality 1: Developing disciples should be our priority

This assumption is not bad. In fact, becoming a missional congregation …